4.66 SEC

22 REPS

35.0 INCH

117.0 INCH

6.97 SEC

4.04 SEC

11.60 SEC

Draft Analysis:

Bucky Brooks' take: Herron gives the Bengals a hard-nosed runner with quickness and power. He will begin the season as a No. 3 running back, but his consistent production could vault him up the depth chart.

5'10" Height

32" Arm Length

213LBS. Weight

9" Hands

Overview

The man they call "Boom" has been a productive and powerful starting back for Ohio State. He is an extremely physical runner for his size and hits the hole hard. He has production and NFL qualities, but not quite starting potential. He started on and off for three years but was implicated in Ohio State's recent NCAA troubles and forced to sit out the first five games of his senior year. He is an effective slasher-type with third- or fourth-round value. He would need to play special teams to make a 53-man roster but has displayed the physicality to do so.

Analysis

Strengths

Herron is quick out of his stance to get the ball and make a decision to hit the hole or get outside. He has good vision once through the hole, but he is better running outside than through the tackles. He can quickly get to top speed and will accelerate throughout the play -- he has deceptive top-end speed. He is secure with the football and a good receiving option out of the backfield. Boom is tough and will stick his face in front of rushing linebackers.

Weaknesses

Herron has decent ability to run between the tackles. He hasn't run many NFL-type routes out of the backfield in college, where he was used more as a safety outlet. Herron can neutralize blitzes but can get overpowered by men simply bigger than him.

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Grade

Title

Draft (Round)

Description

96-100

Future Hall of Famer

Top Pick

A once-in-a-generation type prospect who could change how his position is played

85-95

Immediate Starter

1st

An impact player with the ability/intangibles to become a Pro Bowl player. Expect to start immediately except in a unique situation (i.e. behind a veteran starter).

70-84

Eventual Starter

2nd-3rd

A quality player who will contribute to the team early on and is expected to develop into a starter. A reliable player who brings value to the position.

50-69

Draftable Player

4th-7th

A prospect with the ability to make team as a backup/role player. Needs to be a special teams contributor at applicable positions. Players in the high range of this category might have long-term potential.

20-49

Free Agent

UDFA

A player with solid measurables, intangibles, college achievements, or a developing skill that warrants an opportunity in an NFL camp. In the right situation, he could earn a place on a 53-man roster, but most likely will be a practice squad player or a camp body.